The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I saw this on another forum not related to phonographs. It turned out to be fun, informative and got quite long and had many views. It was about anything in general but I think we should keep this one to just things related to phonographs.

Basically someone asks a question. The next person to comment answers that question and asks another question of their own. You only answer the last question posted, then ask another question yourself. If anything it should be interesting.

I'll start it off.

What is the one phonograph or phonograph item you passed on that you wish you hadn't?

That's easy, an Amberola 1B sold by a forum member.

What is earliest cylinder machine you own?

Rich Gordon

A drip pan Edison Gem

What phonograph did you sell in the past that you wish you could buy back today?

Victor Royal. Early 3 digit serial number. Little beat up but never refinished, all original and 100% correct.

What 1 phonograph have you only seen in pictures or heard of that you would like to see/touch in person ?

An Gem with a Bettini reproducer.

If you could pick any cylinder you wanted what would it be?

Rich Gordon

There are lots of cylinders I want but if I were to pick one it would be "The Darkies Temptation" by Sousa's band on brown wax cylinder.
If you could own any disc machine what would it be?

Victor Auxetophone.
Are there any machines you regret buying?

Yes I bought a crappy little off brand that I was planning to resell that I paid too much for. It didn't sell at my flea market booth until last December, a year later. It felt like like eternity for me because I wanted it gone so badly.
Which do you prefer, oak or mahogany Edison opera?

Oak Music Master horn on an Oak Opera and a Mahogany Music Master horn on a Mahogany Opera.

You are second in line at a tag sale. Inside the house is a very valuable phonograph. Although you do not know him, you already know the guy first in line is there for the same thing you are. What would you do?

Although that hasn't happened to me, that must be one of the worst feelings in the world, or so it would seem at the time. It would be time to think about the wonderful things that have happened to you.

Tell the guy he left his lights on? Tell him he left his doors unlocked and opened and someone is rifling through his car? Shout to the person putting on the sale, you will pay more, than advertised. Or just simply grin and bear it.

I am new at this. What is your best technique/idea to control your urge to buy, other than running out of money or room? What is your mantra?